Are we chained to our desks? describing desk-based sitting using a novel measure of occupational sitting

Ryde, G. C. , Brown, H. E., Gilson, N. D. and Brown, W. J. (2014) Are we chained to our desks? describing desk-based sitting using a novel measure of occupational sitting. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 11(7), pp. 1318-1323. (doi: 10.1123/jpah.2012-0480) (PMID:24184748)

Abstract

Background: Prolonged occupational sitting is related to poor health outcomes. Detailed data on sitting time at desks are required to understand and effectively influence occupational sitting habits. Methods: Full-time office employees were recruited (n = 105; mean age 40.9 ± 11.5 years; BMI 26.1 ± 3.9, 65% women). Sitting at the desk and in other work contexts was measured using a sitting pad and ActivPAL for an entire working week. Employees used a diary to record work hours. Time spent at work, sitting at work and at the desk; number of sit to stand transitions at the desk; and number of bouts of continuous sitting at the desk < 20 and > 60 minutes, were calculated. Results: Average time spent at work was 8.7 ± 0.8 hours/day with 67% spent sitting at the desk (5.8 ± 1.2 hours/day), and 4% in other workplace settings. On average, employees got up from their desks 3 times/hour (29 ± 13/day). Sitting for more than 60 consecutive minutes occurred infrequently (0.69 ± 0.62 times/day), with most sit to stands (80%; 23 ± 14) occurring before 20 minutes of continual sitting. Conclusion: The findings provide highly detailed insights into desk-based sitting habits, highlighting large proportions of time spent sitting at desks, but with frequent interruptions.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Ryde, Dr Gemma
• Authors: Ryde, G. C., Brown, H. E., Gilson, N. D., and Brown, W. J.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Journal of Physical Activity and Health
• Publisher: Human Kinetics
• ISSN: 1543-3080
• ISSN (Online): 1543-5474